“This is a time to celebrate our hard-working dairy farmers and processors for their dedication to building healthy lives and communities,” said Emmons, R-Sheridan. “About 98 percent of Michigan’s dairy farms are family-owned. As a fifth-generation dairy farmer, I know what it’s like to get up every day before dawn to help feed America and support our families.”

June is Dairy Month, and the Dairy Day at the Capitol was organized to celebrate the contribution the dairy industry makes to the state. Emmons joined other state officials and former Detroit Lions defensive tackle and two-time Pro Bowler Luther Elliss to demonstrate the importance of the dairy processing industry in Michigan and to promote the 3-A-Day concept of three servings of calcium-rich dairy products per day, which helps ensure a healthy diet.

“Milk, yogurt and cheese are examples of dairy products that provide essential nutrients needed to build strong bones and reduce the risk of chronic illnesses,” Emmons said. “In addition to producing a wide variety of products that can be the foundation of a healthy lifestyle, our dairy farms also provide jobs and contribute nearly $6 billion to Michigan’s economy each year.”

Elliss led elementary school students from the Oak Park YMCA Summer Camp program and the DeWitt K.I.D.S. program in a flash workout session on the Capitol building steps. It was part of an emphasis on the importance of participating in 60 minutes of physical activity each day and choosing nutrient-rich foods like low-fat and fat-free dairy foods, fruits, vegetables and whole grains to improve their overall health and help fight childhood obesity.

The Michigan Dairy Foods Association is a trade and membership service organization representing all aspects of the dairy processing industry in Michigan and has sponsored and organized Dairy Day at the Capitol for more than 20 years.